During a Japanese only mini Nintendo Direct, President Satoru Iwata announced that Flipnote Studio 3D was on the way for the 3DS eShop in Japan. It's said to be more powerful than its predecessor, and the free base application will be available from the eShop this coming Summer.

The app will allow users to make 3D animations with up to three layers of depth and artists can now use up to six colours for their creations. These animations can be exported in AVI and GIF format allowing an easier way of sharing your work.

You can share your work of art with your registered friends on your 3DS for free — however, if you wish to share it online through the Hatena World Flipnote Gallery community, Nintendo will charge a small fee and offer a free 30-day trial.

We hope it's not too long before a Western announcement, but we can pass the time with the original Flipnote Studio from the DSiWare Shop.